Electric Mobility Canada responds to Quebec’s zero-emission mandate update

September 26, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 26, 2025 MONTREAL – Today, the Quebec government announced changes to its zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. Electric Mobility Canada (EMC) supports […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 26, 2025
MONTREAL – Today, the Quebec government announced changes to its zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. Electric Mobility Canada (EMC) supports the government’s decision to maintain its ZEV mandate and recognizes that recent market disruptions, including the pause in the federal electric vehicle rebate program and ongoing tariff uncertainties, have created challenges for Quebec’s automotive sector. “We commend the Quebec government for reaffirming its commitment to zero-emission mobility. Adjusting ZEV targets to reflect current market realities demonstrates a pragmatic approach, while maintaining medium- and long-term ambition,” said Daniel Breton, President and CEO of Electric Mobility Canada.
EMC understands the government’s decision to revise ZEV sales targets to 90% by 2035. This trajectory reflects current adoption realities while maintaining sufficient ambition to have a positive impact.
EMC also understands the rationale behind repealing the ban on selling new gasoline vehicles starting in 2035, recognizing that a small portion of the population may never want to switch entirely to electric mobility.
That said, EMC disagrees with the government’s decision to include conventional hybrids in the ZEV standard, as this is a real step backward.
  • Conventional hybrid vehicles emit between 365 and 1,400 times more GHGs per kilometer traveled than battery electric vehicles after 40,000 km, or 15% of the useful life of hybrid vehicles in Quebec.
  • The inclusion of non-rechargeable hybrids will most certainly discourage private investment in charging infrastructure in Quebec. Given that the Quebec government’s charging infrastructure strategy aims to significantly increase private investment in this area, this is financially counterproductive.  By suggesting that partial electrification is sufficient, the province could inadvertently slow down the momentum needed to build a robust, future-proof zero-emission mobility ecosystem.
  • Finally, no other jurisdiction in the world that has adopted a ZEV mandate that includes non-rechargeable hybrids in its regulations, and this risks compromising Quebec’s leadership in transportation electrification.
We appreciate the predictability that this quick adjustment offers our industry. That said, MEC urges the Quebec government to reconsider the inclusion of conventional hybrids in the ZEV standard. While flexibility is important, policy must remain aligned with economic objectives, climate goals, and technological progress.
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About Electric Mobility Canada
Electric Mobility Canada Electric Mobility Canada is the unifying and authoritative voice for the transition to electric transportation across Canada. Founded in 2006, EMC is the national industry association that enables and accelerates the transition to sustainable electric mobility through advocacy, collaboration, education, and thought leadership, with the ultimate goal of creating a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future for all Canadians.
Media contact / Anna Schuett Communications Director / anna.schuett@emc-mec.ca / (514) 787-2757